Handheld Light Meters; Are They Still Important For Serious Photography? Page 2

Low-Light Capability
Top-of-the-line handheld meters from Gossen and Sekonic provide an amazing range
of light-reading capabilities that make it possible to take measurements that
couldn't be taken with built-in meters. The Gossen Starlite, for example,
measures ambient and flash light and includes two spot metering measurement
angles, 1Þ and 5Þ. Its measurement range for ambient light is --2.5
EV to +18 EV and for spot measurement of reflected light is +2 EV to +18 EV
at 1Þ and +1 EV to +18 EV at 5Þ.

The Sekonic L-758DR DIGITALMASTER also measures both ambient and flash light
and includes a built-in 1Þ spot meter. Its measurement range for ambient
light is --2 EV to +22.2 EV and for spot measurement of reflected light
is +1 EV to +24.2 EV with the ability to measure the cumulative exposure from
an unlimited number of flashes. Also built-in is a PocketWizard radio transmitter
for remote flash triggering.

Dynamic Range
Designed with the digital photographer in mind, the Sekonic L-758DR can be programmed
to match the sensitivity of digital camera sensors. The dynamic range of a camera
sensor can be stored and displayed on the meter's LCD screen. This presents
the dynamic range limits of the camera's sensor before taking the photograph.
Additionally, the L-758DR has blinking pre-exposure warning lights that indicate
when a measured highlight or shadow has met or exceeded the dynamic range. Predefined
clipping points can also be programmed into the meter for additional exposure
control.

While there's the increased temptation to shoot without handheld light
meters, perfectionists who understand that good photography starts with good
composition and proper exposure still maintain that handheld meters are still
essential to obtain optimum results. Light meters can get expensive. While there
are some available for as little as $85, the abovementioned Gossen costs $750,
while the Sekonic L-758DR sells for $499. But if you're a working pro
or even an avid amateur who demands the best exposure for every shot, these
are investments well worth making.